Russia announced the successful launch of a nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) during a combat training exercise, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense. The solid-propellant, mobile ICBM was fired from the Plesetsk Cosmodrom located in the Arkhangelsk region of northwestern Russia.
Strategic Missile Forces Test Mobile Launch Procedures
According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, the test successfully verified the tactical, technical, and flight characteristics of the missile system. Strategic Missile Forces practiced relocating mobile ICBM launchers to remote areas, setting up equipment, and executing the launch sequence. The projectile successfully hit a designated target area at the Kura testing ground in the Kamchatka region of Russia’s Far East.
Context and Prior Nuclear Drills
While the ministry did not disclose the specific name of the missile model used in this recent test, the Strategic Missile Forces maintain the country’s ground-based nuclear deterrent. In May, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced a separate launch of a Yars intercontinental ballistic missile from the Plesetsk Cosmodrom toward the Kura testing range during a joint nuclear exercise that included neighboring Belarus, according to official statements.
Did you know?
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM)?
An ICBM is a guided ballistic missile with a minimum range of 5,500 kilometers primarily designed for nuclear weapon delivery, according to military definitions.
Where was the recent ICBM test launched from?
According to the Russian Ministry of Defense, the test originated from the Plesetsk Cosmodrom in northwestern Russia and struck a target in Kamchatka.
Did the ministry name the specific missile used?
No, the Russian Ministry of Defense did not specify the exact model name of the ICBM deployed in the Friday exercise.
Explore More: Stay informed on global defense developments by checking out our latest coverage on military exercises and international security trends. Share your thoughts on this update in the comments below.
Keep reading